Read stories of Hope

Recently, Villalobos was rushed to a hospital because he couldn’t breathe. Doctors placed a metal stent in his upper torso so oxygen could flow into Villalobos’ restricted lungs.

“I can never have another MRI again,” Villalobos says. “If I do, I will die because of the metal implant.”

A former bricklayer, Villalobos has traded his Craftsman tools for a medical information card, a special medical bracelet that informs doctors of his implant, and an Epipen that he must always carry.

Villalobos was a master bricklayer for decades. He has worked in Mexico, California, South Carolina, North Carolina, Ohio and Florida.

But these days, photos and memories are all he has to show for his grueling career.

Because while Villalobos constructed buildings, the particles he would breathe — every day — were gradually tearing down his body.

About 10 years ago, Villalobos noticed he was having difficulty breathing. He went to countless doctors and hospitals so he could get relief. But his condition simply worsened and he was eventually given a breathing machine.

Today, nodules have filled Villalobos’ restricted lungs, hindering him from inhaling the oxygen that keeps him alive. His failing lungs have put more strain on his heart, leading to severe troubles there.

And while the metal implant helps him breathe, it causes horrible acid reflux that prevents Villalobos from digesting solid meals. His main source of nutrition comes from shakes, Popsicles and yogurt.

Villalobos’ poor physical condition has led to medical expenses that have crippled him financially. And those financial problems also affect his living conditions.

Villalobos’ home is dark, dreary and isn’t exactly located in the best part of Jacksonville: He’s often awakened by neighborhood fistfights, arguments and flashing police lights. Because Villalobos also expects a development company to soon level his community, he’s already placed an inflatable mattress inside his pickup truck.

Still, despite all this personal adversity, Villalobos actively volunteers in the community — activity he’s determined to continue.

When he isn’t having procedures at the Mayo Clinic, he helps the homeless at the Mission House.

He cleans the facility. He washes clothes. He folds blankets for the disenfranchised. And he finds satisfaction and fulfillment doing those tasks.

“I’d rather spend the breath that I do have helping those in need,” Villalobos says, “because I hope someone would help me.”